Wellness technology
Trackers, wearables and device specifications without result promises.
Pick a guide below. Each one explains what to look for and how to use the product safely. It also says when to ask a doctor or other expert first. Sources are listed at the end of every guide.
Guides in this section
Best Bone Conduction Headphones: How to Choose a Pair
How to choose the best bone conduction headphones: how they work, waterproof ratings for sweat and swimming, battery…
Fitness Tracker Band: How to Choose the Right Features
How to choose a fitness tracker band: heart rate, sleep, GPS, battery, water rating and app fees, plus the CDC weekly…
Smart Rings for Sleep Tracking: How They Work and What to Check
How smart rings for sleep tracking measure sleep, how accurate they are versus a sleep lab, and what to compare…
More guides
Body Composition Scale: How Accurate Are They Really?
How body composition scales work, how accurate they are against lab methods, who should not use the body fat feature…
Chest Strap Heart Rate Monitor: Accuracy, Fit and Battery
How to choose a chest strap heart rate monitor: accuracy vs wrist and vest sensors, Bluetooth and ANT+, battery type…
Digital Bathroom Scale: Capacity, Increments and Use
How to choose a digital bathroom scale: weight capacity, display increments, platform size, batteries, smart vs…
Over-the-Counter CGM Sensors: Who They Are For and Limits
Over-the-counter continuous glucose monitors explained: FDA-cleared options, who they suit and who they do not, sensor…
Pedometer: Simple Step Counters and How to Choose One
What a pedometer is, simple 3D step counters vs fitness bands, display, battery and wearing options, and what research…
Smart Water Bottle: Tracking, Reminders and Who Needs One
How smart water bottles work: sip tracking, glow reminders, app syncing, battery life and cleaning, plus what the CDC…
Under-Mattress Sleep Tracker: How It Works and Accuracy
How under-mattress sleep trackers work, what they measure, how accurate they are against a sleep lab, setup and power…
Wireless Sport Earbuds: In-Ear, Open-Ear and Safe Volume
How to choose wireless sport earbuds: ear-hook in-ear vs open-ear designs, sweat ratings, battery, awareness modes for…
Oura Ring Guide: Ring 5 vs Ring 4, Sizing and Membership
Oura Ring 5 or Ring 4? Compare size, battery, sensors and storage, why to order the sizing kit first, and what the app…